Virtual Maritime Academy

This course is for:

To give the essential education and training to get certified as a Port/Marine Facility Security Officer and meet the requirements set out in the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.

Approved Training Courses:

Virtual Maritime Academy is recognized as an institution approved for Continuing Professional Development (CPD). This course has been accredited by the CPD Group and awards 18 CPD credits. It is globally accepted.

Qualification:

Under the International Ship & Port Security (ISPS) Code qualification

Prerequisite:

No Pre-Requisites

It is assumed that persons attending this course are:

• Employed by a port facility operator; and/or
• Likely to be either designated as a PFSO/Deputy PFSO or the manager responsible for port facility security (to whom the PFSO may report).

Course participants are expected to have a basic understanding of port operations in order to be able to advise and implement the security concept mandated by SOLA S chapter XI-2 and the ISPS Code.

Regulations, Code, Convention Addressed:

The International Ship & Port Security (ISPS) Code.

Learning Objectives:

1. Develop, maintain, and how to oversee the implementation of comprehensive Port Facility Security Plans to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and operational effectiveness.
2. Learn and exercise techniques for assessing security risks, threats, and vulnerabilities to enhance the port facility’s defense mechanisms and preparedness.
3. Learn how to conduct regular inspections of the port facility to verify the implementation and maintenance of effective security measures.
4. Ensure the proper operation, testing, and calibration of security equipment and systems to maintain optimal functionality and reliability.
5. Foster a culture of heightened security awareness and vigilance among port facility personnel through effective communication and training initiatives.

Course Structure:

The PFSO/MFSO course is fully online and consists of:

• 8 chapters and the final assessment & course feedback.
• Confirmation questions after each chapter.
• Course Manual.
• A Final Course Assessment.

Assessment:

There are multi-choice questions to complete at the end of each chapter and a final assessment. The passing mark is 70%. The Final Assessment is fully online and no need to attend any classroom. A Proctor will be assigned to you to monitor you during your Final Assessment. You will need a computer(not a tablet) with a webcam and an ok internet speed for your Final Assessment.  If for any reason you do not pass with a mark of at least 70% of your Final Assessment there is a fee a 75$ + applicable taxes to re-attempt the Final Assessment.

Length:

Approximately 18 hours.

You can enter and exit this course as often as you require. This course is a do it at your own pace.

Delivery:

The course is 100% online and no requirement to attend a test in a classroom.

Student Verification Requirements:

The student is required to complete a simple online verification form that links from the course, where they will submit a scan of an official photo ID such as a passport, CoC, or similar. This is a requirement under Transport Canada. 

Training Certification:

The online PFSO/MFSO Course is internationally accepted.  It includes the 2010 Manila Amendments and conforms to Chapter XI-2 of SOLAS 74 as amended, the ISPS Code, the IMDG Code, the IMO/ILO Code of Practice on Security in Ports, and guidance contained in IMO MSC.1/Circ.1341.

Certificate:

A hardcopy will be posted to your address free of charge.

Online Course Subjects:

A course meeting with all the requirements.

• Historical Perspective
• Current Security threats and patterns
• Maritime Security Policy
• Security Responsibilities
• Port Security Assessment and On-Scene Inspection
• Security Equipment
• Port Facility Security Plan
• Threat Identification
• Security Levels
• Drills and exercises
• Ship Security Actions
• Contingency plan
• Security Administration
• Security Training
• And the list can continue……..
• Download the Official Course Syllabus HERE

Revision: 3 2024